The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR) is the home for many endemic species of Western Ghats. Amphibians within Western Ghats and Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve shows very high level of endemism especially in the genera Raorchestes. The genus Raorchestes are shrub frogs in the family Rhacophoridae under the class Amphibia. Published information on the Herpetofauna particularly about amphibians of NBR is scanty. There is no detailed study on the ecology of the bush frogs. Hence it is decided to study the ecology, current taxonomic positions their habit and habitat and distribution pattern of bush frogs. Four different localities have been selected for this study in and around Udhagamandalam. In each locality visual encounter survey method was used to collect data on bush frogs. During the study period, three species of Raorchestes were recorded such as Raorchestes tinniens, Raorchestes signatus and Raorchestes thodai. Raorchestes mostly recorded during the rainy season under bushes and other vegetation.
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
2. OBJECTIVES
3. STUDY AREA
4. MATERIALS AND METHODS
5. RESULT
6. DISCUSSION
7. SUMMARY
8. ACTION PLAN AND MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
9. REFERENCES
Research Objectives and Themes
This study aims to conduct a preliminary investigation of the bush frog genus Raorchestes in Udhagamandalam within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The primary research goal is to document the diversity and distribution of these endemic amphibians, assess the threats posed by habitat degradation and human activities, and formulate an evidence-based action plan for their long-term conservation.
- Taxonomic classification and species inventory of Raorchestes in the Nilgiris.
- Evaluation of micro and macro habitat preferences for different bush frog species.
- Comparative analysis of population distribution in disturbed versus undisturbed habitats.
- Identification of anthropogenic threats, including land-use change and chemical pollution.
- Development of actionable management recommendations for biodiversity protection.
Excerpt from the Book
Bush Frogs
These frogs belong to the family Rhacophoridae. The family Rhacophoridae is widely distributed in the tropical regions of Africa and Asia. Tree frogs, bush frogs, gliding frogs and flying frogs are belongs to this family (Daniels,2005). The Rhacophoridae constitute a radiation of about 300 species of frogs with a distribution in the tropical region of Asia and Africa (Biju, et al. 2010). Almost all species in this family are tree dwellers and are characterized by the enlarged disc on the fingers and toes. These frogs are capable of taking long leaps from one place to another. Many species in this family are brightly coloured. They vary in length from 1.5cm to 12 cm. amongst the bush frogs, most species lay eggs between leaf folds or directly in water. A few species are even known to develop directly from the eggs without a free living tadpole stage. In those species where direct development in the mode of reproduction, parental care is prevalent to certain extent (Daniels, 2005).
Philautus is a genus of shrub frogs in the family Rhacophoridae. This genus is characterized by direct development that is the attainment of the adult morphology without going through a free living larval phase (Bossuyt and Dubois, 2001; Callery et al., 2001). Some species have been found to bury their eggs in soil although they are arboreal and others attach their eggs to leaves. Bossuyt and Dubois (2001) recognized 110 valid species names in the genus Philautus. The anuran fauna of the Western Ghats is extremely diverse, both in terms of species richness (Dutta, 1997; Das, 2000;Bossuyt, 2002;Kuramoto and Joshy, 2003).The highest density in this genus is found in the Western Ghats of India and Srilanka.
Summary of Chapters
INTRODUCTION: Provides an overview of the ecological importance of amphibians, their role as indicator taxa, and the specific biodiversity status of the Western Ghats.
OBJECTIVES: Outlines the key research goals regarding the taxonomy, habitat usage, and conservation status of the genus Raorchestes.
STUDY AREA: Describes the ecological characteristics, climate, and geographic features of the study sites in Udhagamandalam, Nilgiri District.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Details the application of the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) technique used for collecting data between 2012 and 2013.
RESULT: Presents the primary data on species diversity, distribution patterns, seasonal occurrences, and morphometric measurements of the recorded specimens.
DISCUSSION: Interprets the findings regarding habitat availability, species presence, and the influence of environmental and human factors on amphibian distribution.
SUMMARY: Synthesizes the core findings and the methodology employed throughout the investigation.
ACTION PLAN AND MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS: Proposes strategies to mitigate threats and promote the conservation of endemic bush frog species.
REFERENCES: Lists the academic sources and taxonomic literature used to inform the research.
Keywords
Raorchestes, Bush frogs, Western Ghats, Nilgiris, Biodiversity, Endemism, Conservation, Visual Encounter Survey, Habitat fragmentation, Amphibians, Rhacophoridae, Taxonomy, Udhagamandalam, Ecology, Environmental indicators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research?
The research focuses on the preliminary investigation of bush frogs (genus: Raorchestes) in Udhagamandalam, Nilgiris, specifically evaluating their diversity, habitat needs, and conservation requirements.
What are the primary thematic areas covered?
Key themes include amphibian taxonomy, habitat characteristics (micro and macro), population distribution, and the assessment of anthropogenic threats such as habitat loss and pesticide use.
What is the ultimate objective of this study?
The primary goal is to establish a species list, identify threats, and create a comprehensive action plan to aid the conservation of these endemic frogs within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Which methodology was employed for data collection?
The researchers utilized the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) method, which involves systematic walking through designated localities to record all visible amphibian individuals within a specific distance.
What does the main body of the work address?
The main body examines species diversity, seasonal distribution patterns, activity behaviors (e.g., jumping vs. resting), and provides detailed morphometric descriptions for identified species.
Which keywords best describe this study?
The study is best characterized by terms such as Raorchestes, biodiversity, Nilgiris, amphibian conservation, and ecological indicators.
Why are the Western Ghats considered significant for this research?
The Western Ghats is a biodiversity hotspot with a high level of amphibian endemism, making it a critical region for understanding the survival challenges faced by species like those in the genus Raorchestes.
What specific species were documented during the study?
The study documented three species of the genus Raorchestes: R. tinniens, R. signatus, and R. thodai.
What impact does human activity have on the study area?
Human activities like urbanization, road construction, deforestation for plantations, and the use of chemical fertilizers/pesticides are identified as major contributors to habitat degradation and loss for bush frogs.
What do the authors recommend for future work?
The authors suggest long-term studies, enhanced public awareness and education regarding amphibian conservation, and rigorous policy interventions to manage habitat loss and chemical pollution.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Jabamalainathan Leona Princy (Autor:in), 2013, Preliminary Investigation on the Bush Frogs (Genus: Raorchestes) in Udhagamandalam, the Nilgiris, with an Action Plan for their Conservation, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/517850
